Knott’s Merry Farm offers tons of holiday entertainment, food, and decorations, now through January 7th
If you’re celebrating the holidays in Southern California, you’ll definitely want to take a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm, better known as Knott’s Merry Farm this time of year. The festivities go above and beyond with lots of live entertainment, tasty holiday foods, and decorations all over the park.
If it’s live holiday shows you’re looking for, you won’t be disappointed by the numerous offerings at Knott’s Merry Farm. “Snoopy’s Night Before Christmas” is a spectacular ice show in the Walter Knott Theatre. But this isn’t just a theme park, cutting corners kind of ice show. And it’s not an ice show simply featuring The Peanuts characters catered just to children. This ice show stars an extremely talented ensemble cast alongside Snoopy and his friends.
“Snoopy’s Night Before Christmas” is a big production featuring aerialists, The Peanuts gang, live birds, “snow,” upbeat tunes, spiritual moments, and of course, ice skaters on real ice. This is a can’t miss production and apparently the word has gotten out. You’ll see folks lining up over an hour in advance to grab the best vantage points in the 2100 seat venue. Definitely check the schedule to plan which show you’ll catch during your visit.
In the much smaller Bird Cage Theatre, two different stage productions alternate throughout the day. “A Calico Christmas Carol” and “The Gift of the Magi, 1885” both feature classic holiday tales with moments of Knott’s history mixed in for fans of the park. Both are filled with comedic moments for the whole family to enjoy.
Throughout the day, you can catch two a cappella music groups performing holiday tunes. The Calico Carolers features four-part harmony singers, dressed in their Victorian style, performing throughout the historic streets of Ghost Town. Over by the featured Knott’s Merry Farm Christmas tree in Calico Park, “The Sleigh Bells” sing soulful renditions of holiday tunes. Time it just right, and you can catch the tree and park lighting immediately following one of their performances.
My favorite live show at Knott’s Merry Farm is “Home for the Holidays,” performed on the outdoor Calico Mine Stage. This music and dance filled show is fashioned after an old-time musical movie, like “White Christmas.” It is, admittedly, over the top and a bit schmaltzy, but that’s what it’s supposed to be. It features beautiful scenic design, and simply makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The whole thing culminates with an onstage “snowfall” creating a picturesque moment.
Speaking of “snowfall,” you won’t want to miss “Snow & Glow” happening multiple times nightly in Ghost Town. This “Snow & Glow” is more like “Blizzard & Glow.” A tremendous amount of “snow” falls on to guests below, often covering them in white by the end of the celebration. This short presentation features the unforgettable song “Somewhere in My Memory” from the film “Home Alone,” along with a lighting show. One of the great things about this moment is unlike some of the other shows, you can show up at the last minute for it as the magic is happening all around you.
When it comes to the holidays, a lot of folks’ favorite part is the seasonal food. Knott’s Merry Farm has no shortage of holiday tastes and treats. The “Got to Have It” Turkey Ball on a bed of mashed potatoes with gravy and green bean almondine is like Thanksgiving dinner in a fried ball.
Although it may sound a bit basic, you won’t want to miss the chocolate chip cookies with milk in Santa’s Christmas Cabin. These scrumptious cookies are kept warm on a heating plate, so each guest gets a warm cookie when purchased. It’s truly delicious, plus you may even see Santa Claus as you enjoy this and many other treats available in the cabin.
If it’s sweets you’re looking for with a bit of crafting too, kids will love their time in Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen with a cookie decorating kit. Purchase a kit for just $7.00 and get two cookies with all of the icing and decorations you’ll need to decorate and eat.
There’s lots of specialty Knott’s Merry Farm merchandise to purchase either for yourself or as a holiday gift. Plus, the Christmas Crafts Village features dozens of local artisans selling their unique offerings. There are so many different options that you’ll surely want to take some time to check it all out. There’s something for everyone.
Once the sun sets and the lights turn on, take some time to wander the entire park to see all of the decorations. The recently revamped Fiesta Village has a new holiday lighting package. And kids of all ages will want to wander through Camp Snoopy for a look at all the colorful lights. It feels like every inch of the park is covered in holiday décor, so take a moment to take it all in.
You can see an overview of the holiday offerings at Knott’s Merry Farm in our YouTube video below.
There is so much to do at Knott’s Merry Farm, and that’s in addition to the rides available to guests year round. Keep in mind that not all offerings are available every day of the week. Visit the Knott’s Berry Farm website and app in advance to check the schedule and purchase your tickets.
Jeff DePaoli is a producer and voiceover artist living in Los Angeles. He can be heard as the voice of Disney Trivia on Alexa as well as the host of “Dizney Coast to Coast,” the ultimate, unofficial Disney fan podcast. Get your FREE gifts of “America’s Hidden Mickeys,” “On the Rohde Again,” “Theme Park Comfort Kit” and more at DizneyCoastToCoast.com. DePaoli’s opinions are his own and do not necessarily represent Attractions Magazine.
